India predicted 11 vs Pakistan, ICC Champions Trophy: Rohit Sharma and Co. to take harsh call on Harshit Rana for Arshdeep Singh?

India predicted 11 vs Pakistan, ICC Champions Trophy 2025. (Photo: BCCI)

India predicted 11 vs Pakistan, ICC Champions Trophy: The buzz around cricketing world is large as the marquee clash between India and Pakistan is set to commence on Sunday (February 23) in Dubai. Men in Blue began their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a victory over Bangladesh while Men in Green lost to New Zealand - making this contest an important encounter between the two arch rivals.

While Pakistan have suffered from a major blow with Fakhar Zaman after getting injured in the inaugural match of the tournament, Team India has no injury in the side ahead of the mega-clash on Sunday. However, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir could make some changes for the match against Pakistan.

A splendid 140 from Rohit Sharma, which came off just 113 balls, guided India to their seventh straight victory over Pakistan in World Cup cricket The Hit-Man is our @Oppo Shotmaker for India v Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/CIDOxS7bo3
ICC (@ICC) June 17, 2019

Varun Chakaravarthy could get the chance to play for India in the clash against Pakistan. India already have depth and variety with seasoned spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel offering all-round capabilities. Kuldeep Yadav could be the one making way for Chakaravarthy.

Kuldeep's experience in ODIs and ability to break partnerships make him a dependable asset. Meanwhile, Varun's unorthodox bowling style presents a unique challenge for Pakistan's batters. However, recent reports indicate that Kuldeep is likely to be preferred due to his proven track record, while Varun is dealing with a minor niggle.

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In the pace department, absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has created opportunities for emerging talents. Right-arm fast bowler Harshit Rana has impressed in his debut series against England, displaying raw pace and the ability to unsettle batsmen. He also played against Bangladesh, claiming three wickets, though his selection has faced some scrutiny. As India prepares to face Pakistan, it remains to be seen whether the team management will continue with Harshit or opt for Arshdeep, a proven performer known for troubling batters.

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India predicted 11 vs Pakistan, ICC Champions Trophy 2025:

Openers: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill

Top and middle-order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk)

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel

Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav

Pacers: Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh